What Causes The Cervical Facet Joints To Become Painful?
July 6, 2008 by rainier
Osteoarthritis is probably the most common cause of cervical facet joint pain. This degenerative disease causes progressive cartilage deterioration. Without the spongy cartilaginous cushion, joint bones begin to rub against each other when at rest and during movement.
Another condition, Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) may compromise the structural integrity of the intervertebral discs causing discs to lose normal height. Loss of disc height may cause the affected facet joints to become positioned too closely thereby disrupting the joint’s ability to function normally.
In addition, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, spinal stenosis, injury, poor posture, and wear and tear may also contribute to a painful facet joint disorder.
